They claimed dirty cloths were used to wipe food preparation surfaces, chicken racks were covered in congealed fat and food warming units were dirty.

Officials also alleged a one-metre pool of dried blood was found on the floor and deeply-engrained grime covered walls and shelves.

Mould and dirt was found on the floor of the food preparation room and on walls, doors and ceilings, they claimed.

KFC, based in Goldsworth Road, Surrey, is being prosecuted by City of Westminster Council.

The allegations against the branch were outlined in court documents presented at City of Westminster Magistrates Court.

Other charges related to mayonnaise stored at warm temperatures, food wrappers left on the floor, a lack of hygienic facilities for handwashing and a pile of 14 bags of rubbish left leaking liquid on to the floor.

The fast food chain faced 13 charges brought under food hygiene regulations following an inspection on August 15 last year.

A court official said KFC pleaded not guilty to all 13 charges and a case management hearing would be held on February 22.

A spokesman for KFC said: "As soon as we were made aware of the results of the EHO (environmental health officer) inspection... we took immediate action to bring the restaurant back up to our strict hygiene standards.

"The restaurant is being closely monitored to ensure that they are maintained."